When Can Babies Sleep with a Blanket? Safe Sleep Guide for Parents
Wiki Article
Babies can usually sleep with a blanket after they turn 12 months old. Before 1 year, it is safer to keep blankets, pillows, toys, and other
soft items out of the crib because they can increase the risk of suffocation
and sleep-related infant death. The American Academy of Pediatrics says safe
sleep guidance applies to babies up to 1 year old and recommends using only a
fitted sheet on a firm, flat mattress.
For babies under 12 months, a sleep sack or
wearable blanket is a safer choice than a loose blanket. Johns Hopkins
Medicine also recommends using a sleep sack instead of blankets to keep babies
warm while sleeping.
Why Blankets
Are Not Safe for Young Babies
Loose blankets can move during sleep. A baby may
pull the blanket over their face or roll into it. Young babies cannot always
move the blanket away, so it can block their breathing.
This is why experts say a baby’s sleep space
should be simple and clear. The safest sleep space has:
A firm, flat mattress
A fitted sheet
No loose blankets
No pillows
No stuffed toys
No crib bumpers
The AAP recommends keeping loose blankets and
other soft items out of the baby’s sleep area.
What Age Is
Safe for a Baby Blanket?
The safest time to introduce a blanket is after
your baby’s first birthday. At this age, many babies can roll, sit, move
better, and push light items away from their face.
Still, every baby is different. Before giving
your baby a blanket, make sure your baby can move well during sleep. You can
also ask your pediatrician if your child is ready.
How to Keep a
Baby Warm Without a Blanket
You do not need a loose blanket to keep your baby
warm. Here are safer options:
Use a Sleep
Sack
A sleep sack is also called a wearable blanket.
It keeps your baby warm without loose fabric in the crib. Choose the right size
so it is not too loose or too tight.
Dress Baby in
Layers
Dress your baby in simple sleep clothes. A good
rule is to dress your baby in one more layer than you would wear in the
same room. The AAP says overheating can increase SIDS risk, so avoid too many
layers.
Keep the Room
Comfortable
The room should feel comfortable for an adult.
Your baby should not feel too hot or too cold.
Signs your baby may be too hot include:
Sweating
Hot chest
Red or flushed skin
Fast breathing
Avoid Hats
During Sleep
Do not put a hat on your baby indoors during
sleep. The AAP advises against indoor hats after leaving the hospital because
babies can overheat.
What Kind of
Blanket Is Best After 12 Months?
After your baby turns 1 year old, choose a
blanket that is:
Lightweight
Small
Breathable
Not fluffy
Not weighted
Easy for your baby to move away from their face
Avoid heavy comforters, thick quilts, weighted
blankets, and large blankets. The CPSC warns not to use weighted blankets or
weighted swaddles for babies.
Safe Sleep
Tips for Babies Under 1 Year
For the first year, follow these safe sleep tips:
Put your baby on their back for every sleep.
Use a crib, bassinet, or play yard.
Use a firm, flat mattress.
Use only a fitted sheet.
Keep the crib empty.
Do not let your baby sleep on a sofa or armchair.
Move your baby to a safe sleep space if they fall
asleep in a swing, stroller, or car seat.
The AAP says babies should sleep on their backs,
in their own sleep space, on a firm flat surface with a fitted sheet.
Can a Baby
Sleep with a Blanket at 6 Months?
No, a 6-month-old baby should not sleep with a
blanket. Even if your baby can roll, the crib should still be free from
blankets, pillows, toys, and bumpers until 12 months.
Can a Baby
Sleep with a Blanket at 9 Months?
No, it is still safer to wait. A 9-month-old baby
may move more, but loose bedding can still be risky. Use a sleep sack instead.
Can a Baby
Sleep with a Blanket at 12 Months?
Yes, many babies can start using a small, light
blanket after 12 months. Start with a thin blanket and keep the crib simple.
Avoid big, fluffy, or weighted blankets.
Final Answer
Babies should not sleep with a loose blanket
before 12 months. The safest option for the first year
is a firm, flat sleep space with only a fitted sheet. To keep your baby warm,
use a sleep sack or safe sleep clothes. After your baby turns 1 year old, you
can introduce a small, lightweight blanket if your baby can move well and your
pediatrician has no concerns.